Spotify co-founder Daniel Ek has confirmed he has secured the necessary funds to launch a bid for Arsenal, urging current owner Stan Kroenke to sell the club. The Swedish billionaire, worth an estimated £3.4 billion, revealed his intention to test Kroenke's resolve despite the American's insistence that the club is not for sale.
Speaking to CNBC, Ek said: 'I've been an Arsenal fan since I was 8 years old. Arsenal is my team. I live the history, the players, and of course I love the fans.' He added that he sees 'a tremendous opportunity to set a real vision for the club, to bring it back to its glory.'
Ek, who has enlisted former Arsenal players Dennis Bergkamp, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira to support his bid, is reportedly ready to offer £1.8 billion for the north London club. However, he does not follow Arsenal's official Twitter account and has rarely posted about the team on social media.
Kroenke and his son Josh reiterated their not-for-sale stance in a statement on Tuesday. In response, Ek acknowledged the process could be lengthy: 'I certainly didn't expect this would happen overnight and I'm prepared that this could be a long journey.'
The Spotify boss emphasised his primary focus is on the club and its fans, stating: 'I want the club to do better. That's my primary interest.' Arsenal supporters have previously protested against Kroenke's ownership, particularly following the European Super League controversy.
